The International Studies major is offered through an interdisciplinary program which integrates social, economic, political, geographic, and historical perspectives in the examination of the dramatic trends toward increased interdependence among nations. It seeks to develop an awareness of the fact that many problems or issues which have been regarded as primarily domestic can no longer be understood or resolved without consideration of the global context. The program also aims to provide majors with a recognition of the importance of cultural diversity, through grounding in a specific foreign culture and language, as an essential complement to the international courses in the curriculum.

International Studies majors are strongly encouraged to take advantage of study abroad opportunities.

The International Studies major is prepared to enter graduate training in various fields of international relations and area specialization. Careers in international business and government are often sought as well as careers in teaching, journalism and related fields. The major is good preparation for entry into a variety of graduate programs.

Courses taught on a one-time basis, or special topics course in Economics, History, or Politics that contain significant international content may be counted towards the relevant elective set.

Indicators of Achievement

Student Learning Outcomes for the International Studies Major

Knowledge of international/comparative/global issues: develop an understanding of important international (comparative and/or global) processes and conditions:

Students read widely about, follow, and be able to discuss topics of current international significance, with an ability to relate them to economic, historical and political contexts;

Students attend or participate in co-curricular events that discuss international affairs (events or trends);

Students formulate a research proposal for the senior seminar that draws on and integrates their courses and co-curricular experiences.

Capacity for multidisciplinary and analysis: develop an ability to undertake critical analysis of issues of international, comparative, or global significance that draws on and integrates economic, historical, and political approaches:

Students can identify and discuss multiple dimensions of single international trends or problems, including some combination of those issues' economic, historical, political, and economic elements;

Students formulate and carry out a research project that reflects a multi-disciplinary approach to such a problem.